The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation has awarded full 7-year accreditation to the educator preparation programs at Wagner College.
After reviewing the evidence collected through a process of self-study and peer review, the AAQEP Accreditation Commission issued the decision at its July 20 meeting along with the following rationale:
“The program presented compelling evidence that it meets all AAQEP standards. The evidence showed that program completers are prepared to work effectively as professional educators and that they are able to adapt to different contexts and to grow professionally. Preparation for engaging with local communities, families, and caregivers is a noted strength. Program capacity to analyze and provide evidence for sustained actions and revisions on behalf of candidates was evident and sufficient to meet AAQEP standards. The program and Wagner College as a whole engage deeply and consistently with stakeholders and organizational partners to strengthen the P-20 education system in their local community.”
“Congratulations to Wagner College and to all of the faculty, staff and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Mark LaCelle-Peterson. “The strong and deep relationships fostered with families and caregivers of students in partner schools bring invaluable perspectives to the preparation of teachers and support effective partnerships with those schools.”
In its decision, the Accreditation Commission made special note of the program’s and the college’s high level of engagement with local cultural communities. The innovative involvement of P-12 students’ families and the use of “critical friends” groups within the program’s core classes increase and reinforce culturally responsive pedagogy and intercultural connections.
National accreditation assures the quality of professional preparation programs through a nongovernmental, nonregulatory process of self-study and peer review. This standards- and evidence-based process serves two broad aims: accountability and continuous improvement. The AAQEP model is also designed to honor local context and foster innovation and collaboration among institutions. AAQEP currently has members in 22 states and territories with 125 educator preparation providers participating in the accreditation system.
“We are particularly excited about receiving national accreditation with a special recognition highlighting Wagner’s and our department focus on culturally responsive practices and intercultural connections,” said Dr. Katia Gonzalez, professor and chair of Wagner’s Education Department. “Now more than ever, it is imperative for educators to be action-oriented leaders who closely collaborate with a variety of stakeholders to support the growth and success of students and families in our communities.”
Wagner’s Education Department recognizes the ongoing support of partner schools, committed and talented Wagner students, faculty and staff, community organizations, students and families. It gives special thanks to the following partners:
- Principal Paul Martuccio, P.S. 13
- Principal Louis Bruschi, I.S. 49
- Principal Andrew Greenfield, Port Richmond High School
- Rev. Terry Troia, Project Hospitality and Los Promotores
- Families from Los Promotores
About Wagner College
Wagner College, located on a wooded, 105-acre campus in the New York City borough of Staten Island, is ranked among the top 18 percent of northern regional universities by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1883, it is known for its signature curriculum, the Wagner Plan for the Practical Liberal Arts, which combines professional and liberal studies with community engagement and civic responsibility.
About AAQEP
Founded in 2017, AAQEP is a membership association and quality assurance agency that provides accreditation services and formative support to all types of educator preparation providers. The organization promotes excellent, effective, and innovative educator preparation that is committed to evidence-based improvement in a collaborative professional environment.
